This is advanced scientific work with supervisory responsibility in laboratory analysis for air and water pollution investigation and code enforcement.

Employees in this class are responsible for the technical supervision of trained chemists and subordinate laboratory assistants engaged in conducting qualitative and quantitative laboratory examinations by means of chemical, physical and instrument analysis. Emphasis of the work is on scheduling laboratory procedures, insuring accuracy of tests and interpreting results in terms of total environmental investigation and recommendation. Incumbents are required to perform the more complex analyses or organic and inorganic compounds often involving experimentation and use of specialized techniques of analysis and synthesis. Work requires the application of scientific theory, and knowledge of specialized laboratory procedures used in studying the characteristics of air and water pollutants. Supervision is exercised over subordinate laboratory staff through assignment of work and administrative control of analytical procedures to insure accurate and complete reporting of test results. General supervision is received from the chief chemist who reviews work through conference, written reports and occasional observation of laboratory procedures.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Supervises the conduct of chemical and physical tests and analyses of unknown substances through gravimetric, spectrographic, colorimetric and chromatographic atomic absorption laboratory techniques.

Reviews and participates in chemical, physical and biological studies of air and water samples to determine the presence of effluents, toxins and pollutant substances.

Conducts independent research experiments and comprehensive evaluation studies to determine the long range effects of potential and existing air and water contamination.

Develops new and improved laboratory procedures and chemical agents to rectify and control the release of harmful elements into the air and water environment.

Trains and supervises professional chemists and laboratory assistants in air and water pollution control methodology; devises quality control techniques and calculates standard deviations on sampling and testing procedures.

Prepares and submits detailed reports of laboratory activities; requisitions materials and equipment and recommends new procedures to improve efficiency and economy.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Considerable knowledge of the science of chemistry including the principles, methods and techniques of analyzing the composition of substances.

Considerable knowledge of the basic scientific principles and theories of physics, biology, mathematics and related physical sciences.

Considerable knowledge of the principles and procedures of laboratory chemical analysis.

Knowledge of modern equipment and scientific instruments used in air and water pollution control.

Knowledge of quality control procedures, sampling and statistical techniques used in determining reliability and validity.

Knowledge of reference sources, current trends and recent research in air and water pollution control.

Ability to plan, assign and supervise the work of professionals and subordinate technicians in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to apply scientific and technical knowledge with accuracy and judgment in the review of laboratory procedures.

Ability to train subordinate technical staff in the specialized laboratory techniques of air and water pollution investigation.

Ability to detect malfunctions in laboratory equipment and to make the necessary adjustments or determine the need for maintenance service.

Skill in laboratory manipulative techniques.

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